Cultural exchanges between the Iberian Peninsula and Sicily

From 14 to 16 October 2024, Caltanissetta and Catania will host the international conference Cultural Exchanges between the Iberian Peninsula and Sicily. From Prehistory to the Siglo de Oro, an event that aims to thoroughly examine the cultural, historical, and commercial dynamics that have linked these two areas of the Mediterranean for centuries. This high-profile academic initiative is dedicated to a systematic and interdisciplinary analysis of the historical relations between Sicily and the Iberian Peninsula, thanks to the contribution of renowned scholars and researchers from Italian and foreign academic institutions.

The first two days (14 and 15 October) will be held in the conference hall of Sicilbanca (via Crispi 23, Caltanissetta), while the final day (16 October) will take place in the Aula Magna of the Central Palace of the University of Catania. The initiative, conceived by Francesca Mercadante, geoarchaeologist and president of the association Mirto Verde ODV, and Rosalba Panvini, archaeologist and president of the Cenacum Association (Center for Cultural Activities of the Mediterranean), promoted by SICILBANCA through its cultural institution Fondazione Sicana, in collaboration with the University of Catania, represents an extraordinary opportunity to take stock of the latest studies and research on the timeframe from Prehistory to the Siglo de Oro.

“This conference offers a precious opportunity to explore and deepen the centuries-old cultural ties between Sicily and the Iberian Peninsula, a fundamental field of study to understand the cultural and historical evolution of the two regions,” state Francesca Mercadante and Rosalba Panvini. “The goal is to stimulate new research paths and promote interdisciplinary dialogue among scholars from different academic traditions.” “Supporting a cultural event of such relevance, enriched by unpublished contributions of high scientific value – underlines Giuseppe Di Forti, president of Sicilbanca and Fondazione Sicana – strengthens our commitment to promoting initiatives that enhance the knowledge of the history and culture of our territory.”

In addition to the study days, the initiative will be enriched with an exhibition component. On October 15, in fact, a temporary exhibition entitled Enamel, cobalt blue, and lustre. Iberian and Calatine maiolica from the XIII to XVII century will be inaugurated at the institute, curated by art critic Alfio Nicotra (conceived by Rosalba Panvini and Francesca Mercadante, exhibition project by Salvatore Rizzo).